Phoenix Wisdom Teeth Extractions

Wisdom Teeth Extraction in Phoenix

Wisdom teeth are traditionally the curse of teenagers as their adult teeth grow in, but many adults have to have wisdom teeth extracted as well. Commonly referred to as the third molar, wisdom teeth frequently create compaction and cause existing teeth to turn crooked if not dealt with early. First showing up between people’s mid-teens to as late as their early twenties, they frequently create a tightness that ends up creating additional dental problems. Misalignment is the most common situation.

Other problems that can occur with wisdom teeth left include:
- Compaction or crowding the back jaw area triggers bone or nerve damage
- Easily trapped food contributes to decay as wisdom teeth are hard to keep clean
- A higher frequency of gumline irritation and infection with partially erupted wisdom teeth
- Painful symptoms, soreness in the jaw and gum swelling
- A higher chance of gum disease due to all the above and avoiding brushing, flossing or care

Deciding if Wisdom Teeth Need to be Removed or Not

Not every patient needs to have their wisdom teeth extracted. In some cases, the third molar grows correctly and there is no compaction or surrounding area damage. However, in the larger number of cases, patients aren’t so lucky. The more common situation is crowding of teeth, movement, pain, and even bone damage. The only way to be sure is a dentist’s examination with x-rays. Catching wisdom teeth problems early avoids grown roots which are harder to extract in adulthood. This is why the best time for a wisdom tooth extraction tends to be in the teen years when the third molar is new and not well-established in the jawbone. That said, adult wisdom teeth extractions are possible and safe, just more complicated.

Frequent Complaints Associated with Wisdom Tooth Pain

- The most frequent problem patients complain about with wisdom teeth involves gum, jaw and neighboring tooth pain. This comes from compaction, irritation, infection and similar.
- Tender gumline areas around the wisdom teeth, especially in partially erupted cases, can be ripe for bacteria to create havoc, triggering chronic infections.
- Finally, the crowding of teeth by the space demanded via a third molar can be felt along the entire tooth line. Eventually, something gives and teeth start to turn, shift or misalign to make room for the wisdom tooth growing in. In worst case situations, the third molar grows underneath another tooth already in place. Serious cases can require extensive surgery if left to get worse.
At Paradise Ridge Dentistry, we’re here to help. Wisdom teeth don’t need to be a nightmare. We can extract them safely for all ages, even adults. Call us to schedule an appointment to get started.